(Press release)

AUSTIN, Texas — Free Sportfishing Day events around the state will highlight National Fishing and Boating Week, allowing anglers to fish any public waters in Texas without a fishing license on Saturday, June 6.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials said the special day in this state, authorized by the Texas Legislature, is intended to promote fishing and encourage people to enjoy the state’s fishing resources. Both resident and nonresident recreational anglers will be allowed to fish without a license and will not be required to have special stamps such as the saltwater or freshwater fishing stamps.

Events in Texas State Parks and on community lakes around the state will provide hands-on opportunities for families and friends to share fun, quality time together while learning about two of our nation’s favorite pastimes — boating and fishing.

Park entry and facility use fees will still apply for those who wish to fish in state parks. Camping reservations are recommended.

National Fishing and Boating Week is a key component of the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation’s national awareness campaign, Take Me Fishing. Funded by the federal government’s Sport Fish Restoration Program, the non-profit Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation was created to increase participation in fishing and boating and focus attention on the need to protect the nation’s aquatic resources.

Texas also offers a wide variety of fishing opportunities through TPWD’s Neighborhood Fishin’ Program. Looking for a place to fish (or try fishing) on Free Fishing Day, there’s probably no better place than at a neighborhood fishing lake. Also, no fishing license is required to fish at any time within all Texas State Parks, and state parks across Texas are offering fishing workshops with gear and guidance provided as part of the Free Fishing in State Parks Program. And, in some cases, local parks and recreation departments will be holding special Free Fishing Day events in cooperation with TPWD.

Newcomers to angling can find out details on a variety of fishing topics, including the basics of how to fish, through a series of short videos produced by TPWD and available for viewing on the department’s Web site.